For most cricketers, 38 would be the age to end their international careers but Bob Holland instead debuted when he was that old. That feat made him the oldest Australian debutant in a long, long time. A rippy leg spinner who had an attacking mindset, Holland's career took off quite late in the early 30s when he became a key part of New South Wales' bowling attack. Contrary to Australia's traditions, the State team at his times had a spin-heavy attack with the troika of spinners including Holland weaving magic over their opponents. Since his Shield debut, Holland played a crucial role in the multiple title victories of the State and the years of success eventually gave in to a national call up in his late 30s.

Holland's brief Test career was largely uneventful barring his incredible 10-wicket match haul against the formidable West Indies outfit at home. That performance was a standout one and also earned him an ODI selection but he ended up playing just a couple of games in that format, proving to be extremely expensive. The Test career dragged on though, despite inconsistency and in 1986, he himself realized that he was fizzing off at all levels. Although he still thought he could play on a bit longer, the selectors didn't echo his feelings. A thorough gentleman, Holland was a disciplined bowler which was a rarity for leg spinners. He stuck to the basics and had a fine googly apart from the stock zipping leg break. In September 2017, Holland, nicknamed 'Dutchy' passed away after suffering from brain cancer. He had earlier survived brain tumour and also a serious physical assault from strangers in 2016-17.

By Hariprasad Sadanandan